How to Choose the Right Varifocal Lenses for Seamless Vision at Every Distance.
If you've just been told you need progressive or varifocal lenses, or you're curious about them, you're in the right place. Varifocal lenses, also known as progressive lenses, are designed to give you clear vision at all distances, eliminating the need for multiple pairs of glasses. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about these lenses, from how they work to the top brands you should consider.
What Are Varifocal Lenses?
Varifocal lenses have been a game-changer in the world of optics for over 80 years. Before their invention, people who needed glasses for both distance and reading had to rely on bifocals. Bifocals have a distinct, visible line separating the distance section from the reading section. However, bifocals lack the ability to correct for intermediate distances, like when you’re working on a computer or looking at your car's dashboard.
Varifocal lenses offer a seamless, gradual transition between three key vision zones: distance, intermediate, and near. This means you can see clearly at any range without having to switch between glasses, and without the visible line that bifocals have.
How Varifocal Lenses Work
Varifocal lenses are divided into three main zones:
Distance Zone: Located at the top of the lens, this zone provides clarity when you’re looking far away, such as when you’re driving or watching TV.
Intermediate Zone: Situated in the middle third of the lens, this zone is perfect for mid-range vision, like working on a computer or viewing objects at arm’s length.
Near Vision Zone: Found at the bottom of the lens, this area is ideal for tasks like reading or looking at your phone.
The varifocal lens design ensures a smooth transition between these zones, which allows your eyes to naturally adjust as you shift focus from near to far distances. However, while varifocal lenses are fantastic for everyday wear, they’re not perfect for all situations.
The Limitations of Varifocal Lenses
Although varifocal lenses provide clear vision at most distances, there are some situations where they may fall short. For instance, if you’re doing activities that require you to look upwards at close objects (like hammering a nail above your head), the lens’ design may not provide the focus you need. Additionally, if you work at a desktop computer for long hours, varifocal lenses may not be the best solution because you’ll be looking through the distance zone, which isn't optimised for screen work. In such cases, specialised office lenses may be more comfortable and effective.
The Science Behind High-Quality Varifocal Lenses
In theory, varifocal lenses should work for everyone, but because they require multiple focal areas on one lens, some distortion can occur. Lens manufacturers like Zeiss, Essilor, Hoya, and others have invested years of research into minimising these distortions and improving the wearer’s experience. Through innovations like freeform technology, which allows lenses to be custom-carved with extreme precision, today’s varifocal lenses offer a much more natural field of vision than earlier models.
Choosing the Right Varifocal Lenses for You
Varifocal lenses are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Just as you’d want a tailored suit for the perfect fit, your varifocal lenses should be customised to your eyes and lifestyle. Here’s what to consider:
Lens Design and Technology:
The major brands—Zeiss, Essilor (Varilux), Hoya, and others—offer various levels of varifocal lenses, each with different design technologies aimed at enhancing comfort and clarity. Some designs, like Zeiss’s SmartLife and Essilor’s Varilux XR, focus on optimising your natural visual behavior, while others, like Hoya’s ID Myself, use dual-surfacing technology for enhanced precision.
Lens Alignment and Measurements:
Getting your measurements right is crucial to ensuring your varifocal lenses work properly. While some opticians may use traditional methods like a ruler and pen to measure your lenses, the most accurate measurements come from digital measuring systems like Zeiss’s VisuFit 1000, which uses 3D scanning technology to ensure perfect alignment with your eyes.
Lifestyle Considerations:
Your daily activities should guide your choice of lenses. If you spend a lot of time on a computer, office lenses may be better for work, while varifocal lenses can handle most of your day-to-day tasks. Additionally, some lens brands offer customisation based on your lifestyle, such as Hoya’s lifestyle questionnaire that helps tailor the lens design to your habits.
Top Brands to Consider
Here’s an overview of some of the top varifocal lens brands and what they offer:
Essilor (Varilux): The Varilux series was the first varifocal lens to hit the market and remains a favorite among opticians. Their latest XR series uses Nanoptix technology, which optimises the depth of field, providing clearer transitions between the vision zones.
Zeiss: Known for their precision and research, Zeiss’s SmartLife lenses are tailored pixel by pixel using advanced freeform technology to give you the most natural vision possible.
Hoya: With their ID Myself lenses, Hoya uses dual-surface technology to optimise both the front and back of the lens, providing a wider field of vision and a highly natural visual experience.
Seiko: Seiko’s Brilliance lenses are known for their precision, using technologies like Intelligent Magnification Control to balance out the differences between your eyes, providing more natural and balanced vision.
Why Varifocal Lenses Are Worth the Investment...
Varifocal lenses offer a convenient and seamless way to correct your vision for all distances, without the need for multiple pairs of glasses. By understanding how they work and choosing the right lens brand and technology, you can enjoy the benefits of clear vision in every part of your life.
Remember, getting the right measurements and working with a knowledgeable optician is key to ensuring your lenses are perfectly tailored to your eyes. Whether you go with Essilor, Zeiss, Hoya, or Seiko, investing in high-quality varifocal lenses can make all the difference in your daily comfort and vision clarity.
Need help choosing the perfect varifocal lenses?
Contact us today to book a consultation, and we’ll guide you through the process to ensure you get the best lenses for your lifestyle and needs.
